'Just so you know': Taylor Swift breaks tragic news on Twitter

The 25-year-old singer confirmed the news on her Tumblr page, explaining that her mum Andrea wanted her to announce it publicly.

'She wanted you to know'

While the star hasn't said what type of the disease her mother is fighting, she did open up about how Andrea found out. "For Christmas this year, I asked my mom that one of her gifts to me be her going to the doctor to get screened for any health issues, just to ease some worries of mine. She agreed, and went in to get checked. There were no red flags and she felt perfectly fine, but she did it just to get me and my brother off her case about it," Taylor wrote. "The results came in, and I’m saddened to tell you that my mom has been diagnosed with cancer. I’d like to keep the details of her condition and treatment plans private, but she wanted you to know."

The star added that she feels it's important for her to share life events with her fans, even though she is struggling to come to terms with this one.

Usually she takes to her lyrics to express herself, but wanted this news to be public as soon as possible. That is because Andrea is hoping to inspire others to get regular checks with doctors, even if they don't feel they're necessary.

"She wanted you to know because your parents may be too busy juggling everything they’ve got going on to go to the doctor, and maybe you reminding them to go get checked for cancer could possibly lead to an early diagnosis and an easier battle… Or peace of mind in knowing that they’re healthy and there’s nothing to worry about. She wanted you to know why she may not be at as many shows this tour. She’s got an important battle to fight," Taylor wrote.